President Macron will cast himself as Washington’s foremost ally as he becomes the first world leader to make a state visit to the US during Donald Trump’s presidency today. After going out of his way to woo Mr Trump in the past year, he will arrive with his wife Brigitte for a visit likely to stoke fears that France is seeking to supplant Britain as America’s most trusted friend. French media said Mr Trump had had more telephone conversations with Mr Macron than with any other leader, including Theresa May, since taking office. He was also invited to the Bastille Day parade in Paris last year. The French leader is expected to press Mr Trump to abandon a threat of new sanctions on Iran that…

Source: The Times April 22, 2018 23:03 UTC